TEACHING

Alyssa is a passionate educator who empowers her students to learn with intention and curiosity while building community and inspiring mindfulness through the jazz artform. She holds a Master of Music in Jazz Studies from DePaul University, where she served as a graduate assistant. Alyssa teaches in the Jazz Department at the University of Illinois at Chicago and Loyola University, and has previously held positions at Elmhurst University, Merit School of Music and Neuqua Valley High School.

A sought-after clinician, ensemble director and adjudicator, Alyssa can step into any school setting and create an engaging and encouraging environment for students. Clinician topics include ensemble coaching, improvisation, solo singing, vocal technique, songwriting, arranging, guided listening, music business and piano skills.

Allgood has served as the guest artist for the Jazz Lecture Series at the University of North Texas, the Fiesta Jazz Festival at St. Mary’s University, and the Kirkwood Community College Vocal Jazz Festival. She has presented clinics at the Jazz Education Network Conference, the Illinois Music Educators Association, the Iowa Choral Directors Association, Anchor Music’s Vocal Jazz Academy, Jazzvoice.com, the University of Chicago, Drake University, Evanston Township High School, Niles North High School and Illinois Wesleyan University.

“Alyssa Allgood is a consummate musician who has one foot firmly established within the jazz tradition, while the other foot is moving forward, breaking new ground as a vocalist, composer, and educator. Whether she’s paying homage to the legacies of such jazz luminaries as Betty Carter, Sarah Vaughan, or Charlie Parker, know that she’s also equally well-versed in the craft of arranging and composition with a uniquely contemporary twist.

Alyssa served as the Guest Artist for the St. Mary’s University Fiesta Jazz Festival, putting on a stellar performance with her Chicago-based quartet. She also led a fantastic clinic where she was able to address topics such as jazz vocal technique, improvisation, stylistic interpretation over jazz standards, compositional approaches, and music business strategies for networking and booking performances.

The future is bright for Maestra Allgood. Do yourselves a favor and HIRE her NOW as a Guest Artist/Clinician. Your students will walk away from the experience with an abundance of information AND inspiration!”

-Adrian Ruiz, D.M.A.
Director of Jazz Studies, St. Mary’s University

“Alyssa Allgood is an amazing performer, educator, and clinician.  She has the ability to both encourage and motivate students towards levels of excellence, meeting them where they are and helping guide them to achieve more.  In working with groups of all abilities, she masterfully combines vocal pedagogy with jazz style and fun, and students rave about their experiences.  Her stunning voice and modeling of skillful technique inspires musicians young and old.  You will not find a more engaging or rewarding experience!”

-Heather Nail
Vocal Music Director, Valley High School

Alyssa Allgood’s musicality, vocal talent and connection with her audience shines on the stage as well as in the classroom. Alyssa graciously shares her knowledge of vocal jazz with students of all levels while exploring the foundations of jazz theory, artistry, and the subtle nuances of vocal technique rooted in sound pedagogy. Alyssa’s authenticity and encouragement leaves students in the master class feeling inspired and eager to learn more!”

-Dr. Ann Cravero
Professor of Voice, Drake University

Alyssa Allgood is an incredible musician whose voice transcends boundaries. Not only is she a sublime performer, but she is also a masterful clinician who is able to motivate students to bring their musicianship to new heights, whether as soloists or in an ensemble context.”

-Drew Dahan
Director of Choirs, Niles North High School